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Here’s a look at one pending free agent from each NFL team that could interest the Chargers.
The Chargers won’t be as aggressive as they have been in recent years regarding signing free agents.
Even after making moves to get cap compliant before the new league year begins on Wednesday, Los Angeles’ priorities will be to re-sign some of their players and extend Justin Herbert.
After that, they should have some spendings available to sign some low-cost players.
That said, here is one pending free agent from each team in the NFL that could be a realistic target for L.A.
Highlighting the Los Angeles Chargers’ biggest positional needs heading into free agency.
The Senior Bowl and Scouting Combine are behind us, and the attention has turned to free agency, where the Chargers will look to reshape their roster with players already in the league and get the team ready for the 2022 season.
What positions should we anticipate general manager Tom Telesco to address during this period? Here’s a look at the most pressing needs for the Bolts heading into free agency.
Defensive tackle: The Chargers finished with the third-worst run defense in the league, and a lot of it has to do with the lack of talent in the trenches. Further, Linval Joseph, Justin Jones, and Christian Covington are all slated to be free agents. Akiem Hicks, D.J. Jones, Folorunso Fatukasi are just among the few interior defenders they could target.
Cornerback: Asante Samuel Jr. proved to be the team’s best cornerback in just his first season, but he had two concussions, and he could be moved inside the slot next season. Michael Davis played well, but nothing to warrant the money he was paid last offseason. Chris Harris Jr. will be a free agent. They need a plug-and-play starter on the outside and a few depth pieces.
Right tackle: Bryan Bulaga is still under contract, but he is a potential cap casualty after dealing with injuries during his time with L.A. Storm Norton’s poor play against the Raiders exemplified that he isn’t reliable enough to be counted on as a long-term starter. Trey Pipkins played well in his two starts and should be given a shot to compete for the job in the summer, but the team still needs a bonafide starter to protect Justin Herbert.
Right guard: In the five games as the starter, Oday Aboushi was a difference-maker. Unfortunately, his one-year stint was cut short after suffering a torn ACL. Aboushi is a candidate to be brought back. But if the Chargers move on from him, they will need someone to compete for the job, possibly with Brenden Jaimes.
Running back: Austin Ekeler thrived in his first season under Joe Lombardi, reaching 20 total touchdowns, which tied for the most this season. However, he will need a running mate moving forward to ensure longevity, and that guy doesn’t appear to be on the roster. Coming into his own late in the season, Justin Jackson will be a free agent. Joshua Kelley and Larry Rountree had their opportunities but left a lot to be desired.
Wide receiver: The Chargers have a strong core heading into the season with Keenan Allen, Mike Williams, who was recently extended, and Josh Palmer. However, one thing is sure: Los Angeles still needs a speed/yards-after-the-catch weapon.
Highlighting one pending free agent from each AFC team that could be on the Chargers’ radar.
The free agency frenzy is set to begin on Monday, as it marks the legal tampering period where teams are allowed to start contacting and entering into contract negotiations with, the certified agents of players who will become unrestricted free agents.
The Chargers have already been active, re-signing wide receiver Mike Williams and agreeing with the Bears to trade for edge defender Khalil Mack. But with $21 million in available salary-cap space and needs at various positions, look for them to be active in free agency.
Without further ado, here is a pending free agent from each team in the AFC that the Bolts could have their eyes on.
